Ivory

Why you’ll love it:

Ivory can come off as more formal than white since it’s a richer, creamier shade. Mark Ingram, founder of mark Ingram Atelier, says he sees gowns in “ivory shades as having a more luxurious and more sumptuous feel.”

Who looks good in it:

Another reason to love ivory is that the hue flatters everyone. According to Terry Hall, fashion director at Kleinfeld Bridal, “Ivory is a bit easier to wear for most skin tones and offers a richness and warmth that white cannot.”

White

Allure

Why you’ll love it:

A true-white dress conveys a sense of innocence and freshness. Ingram says, “it has an almost youthful quality and feel to it. I see white gowns as very specific for a winter-wonderland wedding or a summer wedding held at a resort or beach destination.”

Who looks good in it:

Hall recommends white for brides with natural golden or darker skin tones. If you’re fair or have yellow undertones in your skin, the bright color of true white can wash you out.